Cheapest Cars To Buy Based On 5-Year Maintenance Costs
There is a lot that will cost you once you buy a new or used car besides the purchase price. Everything from insurance to maintenance and depreciation factors into the purchase, just not right away. But factoring in all of those costs and more over five years, these are the least-expensive cars to own over five years.
They’re broken down into segments since smaller cars will always be cheaper to own. So we’re looking at the compact, midsize, full-size, sports car, entry-level luxury, and luxury groups. This comes from data furnished by Kelley Blue Book, and only centers on gas-powered cars, not hybrids or EVs. Of course, this segment is dominated by Japanese manufacturers, with the exception of the lone Volvo.
Compact Car
2022 Toyota Corolla
Since a lot of this data deals with maintenance costs, Toyota is going to be in the fray. In this case, compared to the average new compacts, it is projected that the Corolla will cost owners $2,323 over five years. The total five-year cost to own is projected at $31,464. Besides its spacious cabin and good resale value, it also offers a gang of safety features that are mostly found in higher-priced cars.
Midsize Car
2022 Honda Accord
The highlights of the Corolla also apply to the Honda Accord. Reliability, lots of cabin space, and great resale apply here. Plus, less maintenance. Also, the Accord does well with economy numbers, with 30 mpg in the City and 38 mpg on the Highway. Over five years the Accord will cost a projected $38,713, saving almost $900 over the segment average.
Full-Size Car
2022 Toyota Avalon
The Avalon has mostly disappeared from Toyota’s lineup, and we’re not sure why. Compared to the average in this segment, it is projected to save $3,570 over five years. Inside, it is as luxurious as its Lexus counterpart but costs much less. The V6 offers good, if not head-slamming, performance. Toyota’s hybrid system has had over 15 years of refinement, which shows. Prices start at $36,275.
Sports Car
2022 Subaru BRZ
The BRZ squeaks into the sports car segment, establishing an estimated savings of $21, 739 over five years. Of course, being in this segment means it competes with Porsche, Alfa Romeo, and more. We know maintenance costs for those can be stinging. Overall, after five years the BRZ will cost $40,397.
Entry-Level Luxury
2022 Acura ILX
This is Acura’s entry-level model, but it doesn’t scrimp on luxury features. It is based on the Honda Civic, which has grown in size and offerings. KBB estimates that over five years it will cost owners $41,192. That saves $14,684 over the average in this segment. There are other cars that will offer better handling and performance, but you’ll pay more for that, especially when maintenance is considered.
Luxury Car
2022 Volvo S90
With all-wheel drive as standard equipment, good fuel economy, and a hybrid option, you still save more in this segment by buying the S90. The hybrid powertrain is new for 2022, and it is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Over five years it is projected to save $16,145, with a cost of ownership of $67,365.
